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Montana Online Gambling & Betting
The Treasure State opted to follow in the path of many others around the country to legalize sports betting. Residents now have the opportunity to gamble on major sporting events through sportsbooks at land-based casinos and online.
Online Casino in Montana
Online casinos are illegal in Montana. The state has strict regulations against casino games that are based online. However, there are tribal casinos based in the state that allow you to play a variety of table and card-based games. Native Americans were given amnesty by lawmakers to open up brick-and-mortar venues across the region. There are a number of available sites to gamble if you are 18 or over, although the regulations may change to 21 or over at the discretion of the casino. It appears unlikely that commercial casinos will be legalized in the future.
Sports Betting in Montana
Sports betting is legal in Montana. Bettors aged 18 or older are now able to gamble on professional sports within the state borders both at the tribal-based casinos and online utilizing a mobile app. Leading sportsbooks are available in casinos, but the state launched their own app called Sports Bet Montana, which allows users to wager up to $1000. Sports betting has proven to be a hit in the Treasure State and will only continue to grow.
Online Poker in Montana
Online poker is prohibited in the Treasure State. Montana lawmakers have been stringent in their laws against online poker, although the game itself is not an illegal practice. Poker players can travel to the tribal casinos in the state to participate in games as long as they are over the age of 18, or 21 depending on the venue. The rooms are limited and there is a maximum prize fund of $800. Passionate players can travel outside of the borders in search of greater pots.
Daily Fantasy in Montana
Daily fantasy games are legal, but they are run by the state lottery in Montana. As a result, leading providers such as DraftKings and FanDuel are not able to operate within the Treasure State. It does affect the quality of the operation, although the state’s version of fantasy still affords users the opportunity to play for a minimal gain on NFL games over the course of the season. Whether the relaxed laws regarding sports betting spread towards DFS remains to be seen. Their popularity elsewhere may put pressure on the state to change their stance.
Esports in Montana
Betting on esports is not permitted in Montana. Despite the ease in restrictions in sports betting, esports does not qualify as a professional sport and does not fall under the state’s legislation. Only a minority of states in the USA allow esports betting, therefore Montana is not alone.
Lottery in Montana
Montana does have a lottery, although tickets must be bought in person from a retail outlet. Players must be 18 or older to participate in the draws, several of which are available on a weekly basis. You can also buy tickets for national games such as Powerball and Mega Millions.
Horse Racing Betting in Montana
In Montana, horse racing betting is legal with off-track wagering licensed for casinos. There are no major racetracks for thoroughbred horse racing in the Treasure State. You can bet online through NYRA Bets and other digital sportsbook operators that are active in Montana.
Montana Gambling Sites
Want to know more about Montana gambling laws, taxes and development? Follow updates at statelaws.findlaw.com/montana-law.html